Patrick Walton has been appointed as the new Director of Government and Community Affairs at VISIT DENVER, The Convention and Visitors Bureau. Walton brings a wealth of experience from a 14-year career across various sectors including private, nonprofit, and public realms.

“Walton brings relevant experience and relationships that are essential to VISIT DENVER’s mission and partnership with the City of Denver and industry stakeholders and we could not be happier to welcome him to the team,” said Richard W. Scharf, VISIT DENVER president and CEO. “His diverse background in the hospitality industry and government affairs will align with our important work at the Bureau as we look towards the future and continue to make Denver the best city to visit.” 

In his role, Walton will be integral in guiding policy discussions and understanding the impacts of current events on the tourism sector of Denver. He will liaise with organizational leaders and the Bureau’s Board of Directors, while also forging strong connections with essential entities across local, state, and federal levels. Additionally, Walton will play a pivotal role in the implementation and review of the Denver Tourism Roadmap, the bureau’s 10-year strategic initiative. His involvement will extend to aiding the Strategic Partnerships & Roadmap board committee in monitoring the initiative’s effectiveness and supporting the Tourism Improvement District (TID) in its annual strategic and communication plans.

“I am thrilled to be joining the VISIT DENVER team in their mission to bring convention and leisure visitors to Denver for the economic benefit of the city, the community and partner organizations,” said Patrick Walton. “I look forward to cultivating and strengthening key relationships with City leadership, business owners and stakeholders while supporting the mission of the Bureau.”  

Before joining VISIT DENVER, Walton was the assistant director of government and external affairs at Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO), where he spearheaded policy and legislative strategies. His earlier career included significant roles at Mile High United Way, where he focused on improving the economic stability of Colorado families through initiatives like Tax Help Colorado and volunteer engagement programs.

Walton’s commitment extends beyond his professional life; he serves on the Board of Environmental Learning for Kids, the Denver LGBTQ Commission, and the Asian Chamber of Commerce of Colorado. His contributions to the community have earned him recognitions such as the Colorado’s LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce’s 40 Under 40 Business Leaders in 2023 and the Denver Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 in 2024.

A native of Lodi, California, Walton holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of the Pacific and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado, Denver. An enthusiastic traveler and avid skier, Walton often enjoys Colorado’s slopes in the winter.

The selection for this crucial directorship was carried out by Taloma Partners.

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